fasciíte

Fasciite, also called fasciitis, is inflammation of the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, nerves, and vessels. The fascia helps support and compartmentalize body regions and transmits force during movement. Inflammation can cause localized pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness. The term covers several conditions depending on the affected site and cause.

The most common form is plantar fasciitis, affecting the plantar fascia on the bottom of the foot. It presents as heel or arch pain, often worst with the first steps after rest and with prolonged standing. Pain may lessen with activity but stiffness can persist.

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but life-threatening infection of the fascia that requires urgent treatment with antibiotics and surgical debridement.

Less acutely, fasciitis can occur in other fascial planes—often related to overuse or repetitive strain—such as the iliotibial band or forearm regions.

Causes and risk factors include overuse, repetitive microtrauma, obesity, aging, inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, and, for infections, wounds or immune compromise.

Diagnosis is based on history and exam; imaging such as ultrasound or MRI can help. Necrotizing fasciitis is suspected with severe pain, swelling, fever, and rapid progression requiring immediate evaluation.

Treatment ranges from conservative measures—rest, ice, NSAIDs, physical therapy with stretching, orthotics, and, for persistent plantar fasciitis, cautious corticosteroid injections—to surgery in refractory cases. Necrotizing fasciitis requires broad-spectrum antibiotics and urgent surgical removal of infected tissue.

Prognosis varies by type. Plantar fasciitis often improves over months with conservative care; necrotizing fasciitis carries high risk of complications or death without prompt treatment.